Judge Confirms $243 Million Verdict Against Tesla in Fatal Autopilot Crash
A federal judge has upheld a substantial $243 million jury verdict against Tesla related to a fatal accident involving its Autopilot feature. This ruling follows a tragic incident in April 2019, resulting in the death of 22-year-old Naibel Benavides Leon in Key Largo, Florida.
$243 Million Verdict Against Tesla Confirmed
U.S. District Judge Beth Bloom announced the decision on Friday, citing that the evidence presented during the trial strongly supported the jury’s decision made in August 2025. Tesla challenged the verdict, but the judge noted that the company did not introduce any new arguments to justify overturning the jury’s findings.
Details of the Fatal Accident
The incident occurred on April 25, 2019. George McGee was driving his 2019 Model S at approximately 62 mph when he diverted his attention to search for a lost phone. His vehicle collided with an SUV occupied by Naibel Benavides and her boyfriend, Dillon Angulo, which was parked on the shoulder. Tragically, Benavides was killed in the collision, while Angulo sustained severe injuries.
The jury determined that Tesla bore 33% of the responsibility for the crash. They awarded $19.5 million to Benavides’ estate and $23.1 million to Angulo. An additional $200 million in punitive damages was assigned to be shared between the plaintiffs.
Tesla’s Response and Legal Implications
- Tesla claims that McGee was solely to blame for the accident.
- The company argues that their Model S was not defective.
- Tesla sought to minimize punitive damages, stating the company’s actions did not exhibit “reckless disregard for human life.”
Tesla has consistently faced legal challenges regarding its self-driving technology. However, past lawsuits have either been settled or dismissed without reaching trial. According to Adam Boumel, the attorney representing Benavides’ estate and Angulo, the plaintiffs are satisfied with the ruling. He emphasized that Tesla has continuously denied responsibility for the crash, asserting that Autopilot was not ready for public roads at the time of the incident.
Looking Ahead
Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, is expected to appeal the verdict. As the debate over self-driving technology and its safety continues, this landmark case may have significant implications for future regulations and public perceptions of autonomous vehicles.
